The May Garden

 

 

As the weather turns warmer our efforts turn to maintenance. May can be dry and warm placing stress on plants, heavy with fruit, especially those in containers. Check the soil frequently for moisture and water as needed. Plants will benefit from a top dressing of fertilizer and compost or manure. A layer of mulch is important to keep soil temperatures more even and weeds under control. It should be kept away from delicate stems.

Harmful insects become more active as the weather warms. Watch for signs of damage. Watch for spider mites, aphids, and white fly. As the humidity rises fungus diseases become more prevalent. Watch for black spot, powdery mildew and downy mildew. Downy mildew has become a serious problem on impatiens in the last couple of years. Destroy infected plants before the spores can spread.

Plants that thrive in our Florida summers include heat loving herbs such as basil, Mexican tarragon, ginger, cumin, and summer savory. Vegetable include okra, southern peas, and sweet potatoes

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